Rainbow Bridge

The rapid growth of the petrochemical industry in Orange and Jefferson counties in the early 20th century led to increased population in this area. In order to serve the transportation needs of workers and others in this vicinity, the Dryden ferry was established in 1926. It soon proved inadequate for the volume of traffic, however, and plans began for the construction of a bridge to span the Neches River. Jefferson County, the State of Texas, and the Federal government (through the Public Works Administration) all provided funding for the bridge's construction. While the citizens of Orange County also supported the project, the county's economic situation did not permit monetary assistance. Construction of the bridge began in 1936, and was not completed until over two years later. Measuring 176 feet in height and 7760 feet in length, it was the largest bridge ever built by the State of Texas up to that time. Dedication ceremonies were held on Sept. 8, 1938, attracting a crowd of approximately 20,000. Among the activities were a boat regatta on the river and a stunt diver's plunge from the top of the bridge into the water below. The structure was officially named "Rainbow Bridge" in a 1957 contest. (1990)

Rainbow Bridge is a historical marker in Bridge City, Orange County, dedicated in 1990. It is one of 66 historical markers documented in Orange County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 91 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 29.9649, -93.8735 near Bridge City. The nearest cataloged historic site is Turner (cemetery), about 5.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include Bridge City Historical Museum, Cow Bayou Swing Bridge, and Thomas.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5361011509. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.